March is Women's History Month, and the theme for 2025 is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” The Golden Valley Police Department (GVPD) exemplifies this theme through its success with the 30x30 Initiative and its participation in the Minnesota Association of Women Police (MAWP).
30x30 Initiative
The 30x30 Initiative is a national coalition that aims to achieve 30 percent female representation in police recruit classes by 2030 and create a supportive environment for women in policing to thrive throughout their careers.
The GVPD has already achieved its 30x30 goals, with 16 women serving at all ranks of its 38-person staff, including:
- four patrol officers (one is a detective)
- two sergeants (one is a detective sergeant)
- one assistant chief
- one detective
- three CSOs
- five support staff
“I am honored the GVPD has created an environment where female officers have the feeling of belonging,” said Assistant Police Chief Alice White. “Our department is one of very few who have met this monumental achievement, and I am extremely proud.”
White, who was featured in the 2020 Women In Blue documentary, more recently shared her experiences as a woman police officer in a 30x30 webinar interview (see video links at end of story).
Minnesota Association of Women Police (MAWP)
The MAWP works to ensure equity for women in criminal justice careers and provides resources, inspiration, training, and support for the women who serve their community as law enforcement professionals. Established in 1955, MAWP was started by women who worked in jails, courts, and law enforcement jobs and wanted to share their perspectives and experiences with colleagues.
As MAWP celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, it is working to build its a membership statewide and continue its mission of “utilizing, investing, and celebrating the individual strengths, talents, and skill of our members.”
The anniversary kicked off with a gala in January and continues with the annual conference in May, which will include presentation of awards and scholarships as well as training and networking opportunities.
“In late 2024 the GVPD hosted an in-person meeting for MAWP,” said White. “It was well-attended and opened the doors for female officers to gain a better understanding of MAWP and become members.”
For more stories about local women in public safety, follow the City website newsfeed.